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  • Mark Davis

The Consequences of Neglect: Common Issues Caused by Unlubricated Flanged Crane Wheels

Updated: Apr 22





Unlubricated flanged crane wheels may seem like a minor concern amidst the bustling activities of a multimodal facility or a manufacturing plant. However, overlooking the importance of proper lubrication for crane wheels can lead to a cascade of detrimental effects, jeopardizing both equipment integrity and personnel safety. In this blog post, we'll explore the critical role of lubrication for crane wheels and shed light on the common issues that arise when this maintenance task is neglected. Furthermore, we'll introduce Trans-Lube's lube sticks as a convenient and reliable lubrication solution to mitigate these risks effectively.


 Understanding the Significance of Flanged Crane Wheel Lubrication


Flanged crane wheels are the workhorses of lifting operations, bearing the weight of heavy loads and facilitating the movement of cranes along tracks or rails. Proper lubrication is essential to ensure smooth operation, minimize friction, and prevent premature wear and tear. Without adequate lubrication, crane wheels are vulnerable to a host of issues that can compromise operational efficiency and safety.


 The Risks of Unlubricated Flanged Crane Wheels


 1. Excessive Heat Buildup:


Unlubricated flanged crane wheels experience heightened friction, leading to increased heat generation during operation. This excessive heat buildup can cause components to warp and deform, leading to misalignment and premature failure. Moreover, prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures can accelerate wear and degrade the structural integrity of crane wheels, posing a significant safety hazard.


 2. Increased Energy Consumption:


Friction resulting from unlubricated flanged crane wheels requires additional energy to overcome, leading to increased energy consumption and operational costs. This inefficiency not only strains the crane's motor and drive system but also contributes to higher utility bills, impacting the bottom line of businesses.


 3. Erratic Movement:


Inadequately lubricated flanged crane wheels may exhibit erratic movement patterns, including jerky starts, uneven run rate, climbing, and uneven travel along tracks. This unpredictability not only compromises load stability but also poses a danger to personnel working in the vicinity of the crane. Furthermore, erratic movement increases the risk of accidents and equipment damage, leading to costly downtime and repairs.


 4. Premature Wear and Tear:


Lack of lubrication accelerates the wear and tear of flanged crane wheels, bearings, drivetrains, and track systems. Over time, this damage compounds, resulting in excessive surface damage, pitting, and corrosion, compromising the operation and structural integrity of critical components. Premature wear and tear not only necessitate frequent repairs and replacements but also decrease the overall lifespan of crane systems, leading to significant financial losses for businesses.


 Introducing Trans-Lube's Lube Sticks: A Reliable Solution


Amidst the myriad challenges posed by unlubricated flanged crane wheels, Trans-Lube offers a simple yet effective solution to mitigate these risks. Trans-Lube's lube sticks are specially formulated to provide long-lasting lubrication for crane wheels, ensuring smooth operation and optimal performance. These convenient lubrication sticks are easy to apply, requiring minimal time and effort to effectively maintain crane wheel lubrication.


 Benefits of Trans-Lube's Lube Sticks:


Efficiency: Trans-Lube's lube sticks deliver precise lubrication to flanged crane wheels, minimizing friction and reducing energy consumption.

Reliability: With Trans-Lube's lube sticks, overhead and gantry crane operators can trust in consistent performance and extended equipment lifespan.

Convenience: The user-friendly design of Trans-Lube's lube sticks simplifies the maintenance process, allowing for quick and hassle-free application.

Cost-Effectiveness: By preventing premature wear and tear, Trans-Lube's lube sticks help businesses save on maintenance costs and minimize downtime.

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